Data Science (MS)

Data makes decisions. Conduct original research across a vast field with expert faculty and industry professionals. Gain the skills needed to use analytical programming languages, data science tools, and applications. Learn how to create knowledge from data. 

Curriculum

• Pace University’s Master of Science in Data Science teaches students how to apply data science methods to different fields of interest. As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to conduct original research across a broad range of topics, working directly with expert faculty and industry professionals. You’ll gain the skills needed to use analytical programming languages, data science tools and applications, and, importantly, you’ll learn how to create knowledge from data. Knowledge based on facts is essential to successful decision-making in business, government, and even as individuals.
• During your studies in the program, you’ll become familiar with both the underlying theory and practical techniques necessary to succeed in data science. Moreover, you’ll learn the ethical issues relevant to the design and execution of research studies. The program also integrates a research seminar so you will be aware of the latest advances in data science.

MS in Data Science Program Highlights

• Learn the fundamentals of data science, then apply that knowledge through practical exercises and projects that will get you ready to join the tech workforce.
• Work with real data sets to get to grips with the data life cycle in class and in innovative labs like the Applied Networking and Data Science Lab.
• Become an essential part of any strategic decision-making team as you learn how to use data to provide insights that can take organizations to the next level.
• You can also complete the MS in Data Science online.

Take Courses Like…
Mathematical Foundation of Analytics, Scalable Databases, Introduction to Data Science, Data Mining, Machine Learning, Algorithms for Data Science, Capstone Project.

• CS 627 Artificial Intelligence
• CS 672 Deep Learning
• CS 674 Supportive Technologies for Blockchain Applications

The MS in Data Science is a specialized program geared specifically to those who are interested in the rapidly expanding field of data science. It is preferable for students to have a background in computer science, mathematics, or statistics, and a desire to combine the skills of these fields. You should be proficient in calculus and linear algebra, and have some programming and database experience.

If you do not have prior experience, two bridge courses in database management systems and Python will prepare you for the master’s program.

During the program, you will work with a variety of programming languages and tools including Python, R, TensorFlow, Spark, Hadoop, and MapReduce. You’ll also learn the statistical and math skills, as well as techniques for storytelling and data visualization, that you need to do excellent work.

Data Science Masters Program Opportunities and Experiences

• The capstone project in the MS in Data Science is designed specifically to prepare you for conducting data science tasks in the real world. During the course, you will apply the skills and knowledge gained during your master’s experience to a project involving actual data in a real world setting. You’ll begin by identifying a problem or opportunity in a real-world domain. You’ll then collect and process data and apply the appropriate analytic methods to find a solution. Both the problem statement and the datasets will come from scenarios similar to those you might encounter in industry, government, or academia. Your final presentation will demonstrate your integration of the knowledge and experience gained over the program, and will result in a powerful portfolio piece you can use when applying for data science jobs.
• In order to seriously prepare for a career in data science, you must become familiar with the ethical issues associated with the field. How do we collect data in a way that is ethical and that protects people’s privacy? How does our use of data impact our values as a society, such as what is fair and how accountability should be viewed? What does transparency look like when sensitive information is in the mix? Considering these questions and more will help you understand the power of data, how you can use it, and, importantly, how you should use it.

Choose Your Career in Data Science

• Data Scientist was the number 2 best job in America in Glassdoor’s 2021 listing, with thousands of jobs actively hiring. For several years, the need for data scientists has been growing—and it continues to do so. The world needs data scientists who can collect, maintain, process, analyze, and communicate meaning from datasets. The career options for those with an MS in Data Science are immense.

Data Science Career Options

• Data Scientist
• Data Analyst
• Data Engineer
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Quantitative Analyst

Where Pace Graduates are Employed

• Accenture
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Google
• IBM
• JPMorgan Chase
• Microsoft
• Morgan Stanley
• Prudential
• United States Government